KARACHI: Over 125 patients escaped from a drug rehabilitation centre in Orangi Town after a mob stormed the facility late Saturday night. The “Sunshine Rehab Centre,” reportedly run by Sindh Police officer Abdul Khaliq Ansari, was attacked by angry residents of Faqir Colony, who have long complained of mismanagement and misconduct.
According to Mominabad Police Station SHO Meraj Anwar, the mob vandalised the centre, assaulted staff, and damaged a police vehicle. The FIR filed states that between 50 and 150 individuals, some armed with sticks and guns, forcibly entered the facility, broke into patient wards, and damaged property worth thousands, including government assets.
Police confirmed the escape of 117 patients during the chaos, with a search operation underway. The FIR names seven suspects and includes charges of rioting, assault, attempted murder, and destruction of property.
Residents alleged that the centre failed to control its inmates, who often escaped and trespassed into nearby homes. Locals also accused the management of selling drugs and mistreating patients.
Town Vice Chairman Abdullah Baloch claimed the centre, which was initially launched to provide free treatment, now charges high fees and has turned into a site of inhumane practices. Union Council Chairman Mumtaz Tanoli also demanded the FIR be withdrawn and called for an independent probe into the facility’s operations.
Police are continuing their search for the escaped patients, while the centre’s future remains uncertain amid growing calls for its closure.
